This isn't 2008, only 6 shortstops posted an OPS .700 or higher. If he can get the glove back, he isn't a problem.

I don't think he is a problem, I liked him and said he was our most valuable offensive player last year. My issue was just with the thought that he is one of the better offensive SS. I do not believe he is, and I think saying so sets us up to be disappointed in him.

It is almost the Gordon Beckham syndrome. People were expecting Gordon to be Derek Jeter, the next superstar leader. Really was not a fair expectation. I remember this because I got flamed for saying I see more of a Howie Kendrick like career for him at 2b. Now, we would all kill for a 270-12 homer 3 WAR player.

I don't think he is a problem, I liked him and said he was our most valuable offensive player last year. My issue was just with the thought that he is one of the better offensive SS. I do not believe he is, and I think saying so sets us up to be disappointed in him.

Hes not one of the better ss but he is the best the Sox currently have. I say they should see how it goes this year, team wise and watch what the shortstops in the minors are doing. At one time last year I thought Ramirez had little value because of salary but with the escalating salaries I have changed my mind.

I don't think he is a problem, I liked him and said he was our most valuable offensive player last year. My issue was just with the thought that he is one of the better offensive SS. I do not believe he is, and I think saying so sets us up to be disappointed in him.

It is almost the Gordon Beckham syndrome. People were expecting Gordon to be Derek Jeter, the next superstar leader. Really was not a fair expectation. I remember this because I got flamed for saying I see more of a Howie Kendrick like career for him at 2b. Now, we would all kill for a 270-12 homer 3 WAR player.

I agree with you there, it was only the "brutal" comment that caught my eye before. Another frustrating thing about Alexei is that suddenly he's stealing 30 bases at a 77% success rate? Why wasn't he doing that when he was younger?

I agree with you there, it was only the "brutal" comment that caught my eye before. Another frustrating thing about Alexei is that suddenly he's stealing 30 bases at a 77% success rate? Why wasn't he doing that when he was younger?

I recall reading that Alexei said he changed his approach since he was hitting in the two spot so much. I think the increase in stolen bases is because he has a better idea of how to do it, he was always fast but maybe now he has a better read on pitchers.

I recall reading that Alexei said he changed his approach since he was hitting in the two spot so much. I think the increase in stolen bases is because he has a better idea of how to do it, he was always fast but maybe now he has a better read on pitchers.

It probably is that, I just wish it happened sooner. Not that I think an extra 15 stolen bases makes a difference in the standings for those earlier year, but still.